How Is Thyroid Lymphoma In NYC Diagnosed?
Thyroid lymphoma is characterized by firm lumps around the neck and throat. The patient may notice these lumps themselves. In other cases, thyroid lymphoma can be detected during a physical examination. Patients are then sent for further testing to diagnose the condition. A fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is used to determine if the growth is cancerous. A PET scan or ultrasound may also be recommended to check if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Will A Biopsy Determine My Thyroid Lymphoma?
A fine needle biopsy can diagnose whether or not your growth is malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). During your biopsy, a tiny needle will be inserted into the growth to remove a small sample. This sample will then be sent to a laboratory to confirm if the growth is cancerous. FNA biopsies can also determine which type of cancer is present. Results are usually known within a few days.
What Are Some Common NYC Thyroid Lymphoma Treatments?
Unlike other forms of thyroid cancer, thyroid lymphoma is not typically treated with surgery. Instead, chemotherapy and external beam radiation therapy can be used to treat thyroid lymphoma. These 2 treatments may also be combined to halt the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
| THYROID LYMPHOMA TREATMENTS |
| Chemotherapy |
| Chemotherapy uses chemical agents to destroy cancer cells. Chemo medicines are given orally or through an injection. These medications target cancer cells that rapidly grow and multiply. Chemotherapy can shrink thyroid lymphomas while also slowing the growth of cancer to other organs or structures. |
| External Beam Radiation Therapy |
| External beam therapy uses controlled radiation to destroy cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Radiation is administered using a specialized machine called a linear accelerator. During the procedure, the patient lies flat while the linear accelerator moves around the affected area, delivering radiation bursts with precision. |
| Thyroid Medication |
| Following thyroid lymphoma treatment, thyroid medication may be prescribed to help maintain healthy hormone levels. Thyroid medicines can prevent hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). |
What Can I Expect Following Thyroid Lymphoma Treatment?
The specifics of your recovery will depend on the extent of your cancer, as well as the amount of radiation and chemotherapy received. Patients usually report feeling fatigue and discomfort following treatment for thyroid lymphoma in NYC. Pain medication can be prescribed to help relieve discomfort. It is important for you to rest and recover. Strenuous activities and vigorous exercise should be avoided until permitted by our thyroid specialist. Patients may be prescribed thyroid medication to prevent hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Ongoing monitoring is required to detect any recurrence of cancer. Dr. Shin can further discuss post-care instructions and guidelines with you during your consultation for thyroid lymphoma treatment.